We’re all grown up now though, and within the recent spate of venue birthdays, the Laird stands out as the biggest mofo of them all. But things weren’t always so queer down Gipps St, even though the original 1847 name of The Laird O’Cockpen Hotel could easily be taken the wrong way.

So how did it become the cock pen we know and love today? A change of hands in the 80s dictated the club retained its strong links to the local community while attracting the gay crowds tired of drag shows and discos, who longed for a drink in a pub environment. A simple, but winning formula.

The community feel is still very strong today, with fundraisers like the auctions and Slave Market bringing in charitable cash on a regular basis. In line with this, the entertainment for their party was sourced entirely from their regular clientele - meaning they’ll be celebrating just as much as you are.

Pianist Peter Baker will be charming the mood lit crowd on his electronic baby grand (so not Michelle Pffiefer renditions from the piano top, unfortunately), the infamous Adam Richards is hijacking the microphone for your benefit. Derrick will be bringing you a ‘legendary Laird show’ and Laurie Lane will be compere for the evening.

It all happens this Saturday at the Laird, "where men meet men". Meet you there, man.